Crystal Palace have now joined the race to sign an “absolute star”, who is being targeted by some of Europe’s top clubs.
Palace on track to push for Europe after Burnley victory
After the disappointing 2-1 loss at home to Manchester United last weekend, Palace returned to winning ways against Burnley on Wednesday night, securing a 1-0 victory courtesy of Daniel Munoz’s goal on the stroke of half-time.
It was another resolute defensive display from the Eagles, who boast the second-best defensive record in the Premier League this season, having shipped just 11 goals, with only Premier League leaders Arsenal conceding fewer.
Having jumped to fifth place courtesy of the win at Turf Moor, there is every sign Oliver Glasner’s side could make a push for European qualification this season, particularly if they continue to be tough to score against, with captain Marc Guehi at the heart of their defence.
However, with Guehi’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, and Liverpool recently opening fresh talks, Glasner will have to start making plans for life after the England international soon, and Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande is one of the centre-backs of interest.
Crystal Palace are keen to strengthen at the opposite end of the pitch too, according to a report from TuttoAtalanta (via Sport Witness), which states they have now joined the race for Watford star Rocco Vata, alongside Fulham and two Champions League clubs.
Indeed, Eintracht Frankfurt and Atalanta are also vying to sign Vata, who has an affordable asking price, with it being revealed potential suitors will have to fork out a fee of around €8m – €12m (£7m – £11m).
Crystal Palace could now sign £80k-a-week "warrior" in "good value" January deal
There has been a new update on the Eagles’ pursuit of a defender.
ByDominic Lund
‘Half of Europe’ are credited with an interest in the former Celtic man, who has really kicked on since leaving Parkhead to join the Hornets back in 2024…
"Absolute star" Vata could be savvy addition for Palace
Scout Ben Mattinson has been left impressed by the 20-year-old’s performances since signing for Watford, lauding him as an “absolute star” back in January, and the starlet established himself as an important player last season, chipping in with seven goal contributions in 33 Championship games.
Palace have been very successful when recruiting players from the Championship in the past, signing the likes of Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise, and the Watford star could go on to achieve similar things, having performed very well across some key statistics over the past year.
Rocco Vata’s key statistics
Average per 90 (past year)
Assists
0.30 (88th percentile)
Successful take-ons
2.31 (92nd percentile)
Tackles
1.70 (79th percentile)
Given that Vata could be available for a very affordable fee, Crystal Palace should look to get ahead of the likes of Atalanta and Frankfurt in the race for his signature by making a January offer.